AS the mid-season transfer window closed yesterday, January 15, Simba SC appear to have concluded their business with the signing of Elie Mpanzu only.

Sources within Simba’s management have hinted that head coach Fadlu Davids is satisfied with the current squad and has opted not to make any additional signings during this window.

In one of his recent interviews, Davids highlighted the challenges of securing the type of players he needs, particularly those capable of making an immediate impact in the starting lineup, similar to Mpanzu.

“We won’t make significant signings during this window because it’s challenging to find the type of players we need during this period,” Davids explained. 

“Most players are under contracts with their respective clubs, which makes negotiations difficult, especially when those players are key to their teams.”

“When signing a player at this time, it’s crucial to ensure they have the quality to immediately fit into the first team, as Mpanzu has done,” he added.

During the transfer window, Simba were linked with Azam FC midfielder Feisal Salum, popularly known as Fei Toto. However, it proved challenging to negotiate with Azam FC, as the club remains keen on retaining the player.

Simba also inquired about the availability of Allan Okello, a midfielder for Uganda’s Vipers SC. However, Vipers have been reluctant to engage in transfer talks with Simba, especially since the drawn-out negotiations during Cesar Manzoki’s transfer saga.

At this point, there are no expectations of additional signings unless a surprise deal emerges, a strategy Simba has occasionally employed in previous windows.

Simba have now turned their focus to their upcoming CAF Confederation Cup clash against Algeria’s CS Constantine, scheduled for this Sunday at 4 PM at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Simba currently sit in second place in Group A with 10 points and will be aiming for a victory to secure the top spot. CS Constantine lead the group with 12 points.

The first-leg encounter between the two teams ended in a 2-1 victory for CS Constantine in Algeria. Simba will now look to leverage their home advantage and end the group stage on a high note.

This crucial match promises to be a thrilling contest as Simba battle to secure the top position in the group and gain momentum for the next stage of the competition.